Definition

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection of the female pelvic organs.

Female Reproductive System Organs Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes    TOP

Bacteria causes this infection. The most common ones are gonorrhea and chlamydia.

Risk Factors    TOP

The infection is most common in women who are 15-29 years of age.

Other things that may raise your risk are:

• Having a sexually transmitted infection (STI) now or in the past
• Having sex with more than one person
• Sex with a man who has an STI
• Sex without a condom
• Having an intrauterine device (IUD) placed in the last three weeks

Symptoms    TOP

Women do not always have signs. If you have signs, they may be:

• Pain in the lower belly
• Fever
• Bleeding or leaking with a foul odor
• Painful during sex
• Pain when voiding
• Back pain
• Upset belly or throwing up

Diagnosis    TOP

There is no test. The doctor will ask about your health. You will have a physical and pelvic exam.

You may have:

• Tests for STIs
• Urine tests to check if you are pregnant or have an infection
• Blood tests to check for infection
• Laparoscopy —a tube placed through a small cut to view inside your belly

Pictures may be taken with:

• Ultrasound
• MRI scan

Treatment    TOP

The doctor will give you one or more antibiotics. Any male sex partners should also get treated. Do not have sex until you are both treated.

You may need to be in the hospital if you do not get better. A surgeon may need to remove tissue.

Prevention    TOP

Follow these steps:

• Use a condom when you have sex.
• Talk to your doctor about birth control choices. Ask which methods may lower your risk.
• Limit the number of people you have sex with.
• Get tested for STIs.